Severe gusts reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced officials to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting households mainly in the southern region, though officials report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the city have been suspended due to the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on today occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have issued fire bans for fear of forest fires.
